FAQs
What happens to Annabel Lee in the poem Annabel Lee?
Annabel Lee dies young, leaving the narrator heartbroken and consumed by grief. The poem suggests that a mysterious illness or chilling wind took her life.
Is there any biblical allusion in the poem Annabel Lee?
Yes, "Annabel Lee" utilizes subtle biblical allusions. The most prominent one lies in the line, "The angels, half so happy in Heaven, Went envying her and me." This draws upon the story of Satan's jealousy in the Book of Isaiah, where he rebels against God out of envy. Additionally, the "kingdom by the sea" setting faintly echoes Eden, highlighting the loss of innocence and idyllic love.
How does Poe use Figurative language in Annabel Lee?
Hyperbole: Love and loss are exaggerated for emphasis in the poem. Lines like "a kingdom by the sea" and "our love was stronger by far than the love of those who were older than we" elevate the emotions and make them appear larger than life.
Metaphor: Comparisons go beyond the surface to create deeper meaning. The "sepulchre by the sea" is not just a tomb but a symbol of their enduring love, transcending the boundaries of death.
Personification: Angels, typically non-human, are portrayed as "envying" their love, adding a layer of complexity and suggesting their love transcends even heavenly joy.
Repetition: Phrases like "In a kingdom by the sea" and "Annabel Lee" are woven throughout, creating a rhythm and emphasizing key themes like unique bond and enduring love.
